Cardiff Blues have drafted in Italy international Manoa Vosawai as a replacement for the departing Robin Copeland.

No.8 Vosawai, who has 14 caps for Italy, arrives from Treviso and joins Tavis Knoyle, Craig Mitchell and Jarrad Hoeata in signing for the Blues.

"First of all I would like to thank God for my life and the many blessings in it. Secondly I would like to thank Benetton Treviso for the last four years of my career," Vosawai said. "Treviso have been there for me through thick and thin, and have nurtured me into the rugby player I am today. I will miss being part of the family in Treviso and Benetton rugby.

"Now there's a new page in my life and I am grateful that Richard Holland and his team has given me the opportunity to be part of the Cardiff Blues family. Cardiff are a top side with rich heritage and tradition in rugby and I know that they will bring out the best in me. It is an exciting time for me and I'm looking forward to putting on the Blues jersey next season at the Arms Park."

Chief Executive Richard Holland added: "Manoa is keen to make a huge impression in Wales and we would like to thank the WRU for its support over this signing. We will now complete the visa process as we prepare to welcome Manoa to Blues in the coming months."